HealthInfo West Coast-Te Tai Poutini
Vulval & vaginal care
Generally, it's not good to use lots of strongly perfumed and coloured soaps, lotions and potions on your genital area. They can make your vulva and vagina dry and irritated and even cause an overgrowth of normal skin bugs, which can lead to inflammation and infection.
Washing gently with warm water and a small amount of a mild or unscented soap, or a soap alternative, is the best way to keep your genital area healthy. Rinse and gently dry. During your period you will need to change your sanitary product regularly.
Do not douche (squirt water into your vagina to clean it) or use a feminine spray, vaginal deodorant or scented wipes. These products are not necessary and can cause harm.
Vaginal discharge is normal and healthy. It keeps the vagina clean and moist, and protects it from infection. It is a clear or white fluid or mucus and doesn’t have a strong or unpleasant smell.
If you are concerned about any vaginal discharge, smell or pain or have a persistent itch then you should see your GP.
Pubic hair
Some people want to trim or remove their pubic hair.
If you decide to trim, you can use scissors. Make sure they're clean before you use them.
Shaving and waxing can irritate your skin. They can also accidentally cut or tear your skin. As well, your pubic hair can grow back the wrong way (ingrown hairs). All of these can cause pain and infection. If this happens, you need to stop shaving or waxing until it's cleared up. Then, to stop it happening again, try a gentler way of removing the hair, such as a lady's electric razor. It's important to always use a clean razor. If you're using a blade razor, use plenty of shaving gel – do not use soap.
The links below give you more information about what is normal with your vulva and vagina and how to tell when there might be a problem.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa – Vaginal discharges
Information about what is normal discharge, and what might cause changes.
- Jean Hailes for Women's Health – Vulval and vaginal irritation
General information and diagrams showing the female anatomy, explanation of what is normal, and how to manage any irritation.
- Te Whatu Ora Waitaha – Vulval skin care
Tips for caring for your vulva.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed September 2021.
SourcesReview key: HIVVC-53223
